Spencer, IA (KICD)– Spencer Municipal Utilities is once again in the national spotlight having achieved exceptoinal electric reliability.

The American Public Power Association helps electric utilities track power outage and restoration data and once a year compares its data to national statistics.

The latest numbers for 2023 had SMU’s average duration of electric interruption at just over 20 minutes, nearly half the national average.

Part of the success in keeping the power on goes back to efforts that have now brought 97 percent of electric lines underground along with staff following an annual program for inspections, repairs and maintenance.